Utah football was dealt a crushing blow in the 2023 Rose Bowl when quarterback Cam Rising left early with an apparent leg injury, which undoubtedly played a part in the Utes losing 35-21 to the Penn State Nittany Lions. Since that day, there hasn't been a lot of talk about Rising and his health. But, head coach Kyle Whittingham gave an important update on his signal-caller during an appearance on the Pac-12 network Thursday.

Via Josh Newman:

“Speaking on Pac-12 Network’s NSD show a little earlier, Kyle Whittingham says Cam Rising underwent surgery, but reiterates the expectation that Rising will be ready for the opener vs. Florida.”

Article Continues Below
More NCAA Football News
Tennessee wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. (1) is tackled by Kentucky during a game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024
Tennessee land explosive ATH with unreal 100m speedLorenzo J Reyna ·
Clemson running back Gideon Davidson (9) takes a handoff from quarterback Cade Klubnik (2) during Spring Practice in Clemson, S.C. Monday, March 24, 2025.
Clemson boosts defense with huge 4-star recruiting win over rival MiamiLorenzo J Reyna ·
Georgia Bulldogs quarterback Gunner Stockton (14) runs with the ball during the second half against Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Gi'Bran Payne (3) at Caesars Superdome.
Georgia hits new 2026 recruiting claim after landing No. 1 DLLorenzo J Reyna ·
Oklahoma coach Brent Venables walks off the field after the Armed Forces Bowl football game between he University of Oklahoma Sooners (OU) and the Navy Midshipmen at Amon G. Carter Stadium in Fort Worth, Texas, Friday, Dec. 27, 2024. Navy won 21-20.
Oklahoma beats out Deion Sanders, Colorado for 4-starLorenzo J Reyna ·
Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) throws during the Crimson Combine at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium.
Oklahoma football’s John Mateer takes extreme measure to prepare for first season with SoonersPreston Byers ·
Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel during the Orange & White spring game in Neyland Stadium.
Tennessee football laps SEC rivals on recruiting scene with pair of key commitmentsBenjamin Adducchio ·

While that is definitely a positive, it means the likes of Brandon Rose and Nate Johnson will take most of the QB reps this spring. Just last month, Whittingham first said Rising will be ready for the season opener. Via SI:

“Its a leg injury,” Whittingham said. “Its going to be fairly extensive rehab. He will not be able to participate in spring, but we expect him to be ready for the season opener.”

Before exiting the Rose Bowl, Rising had completed just 8 of 21 passes for one TD and one interception. Overall though, 2022 was kind to Cam Rising. He threw for 26 touchdowns, eight picks, and for over 3,000 yards.

There is no question Utah needs him healthy next season in order to be competitive, therefore it's great news he's now on the rehab path. And who knows, maybe Rose or Johnson do enough to give Cam Rising a run for his money once healthy at QB1.